Anxiety Archive

Acts of kindness do more than make the giver and recipient feel good-they can also bolster psychological and physical health. Research suggests kindness can improve happiness and increase social connectedness as well as reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure. Evidence also suggests concentrating good deeds into shorter time periods enhances well-being more powerfully than spreading actions out. Kind acts can include complimenting people, running errands for a neighbor, making a donation to charity, and signing up to volunteer.

According to a 2024 study, people with high amounts of visceral fat-the deep hidden fat surrounding abdominal organs-also have higher levels of abnormal proteins in the brain that are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.

Sudden memory lapses could be natural aspects of aging or early signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). With MCI, memory loss is noticeable but usually does not impede the ability to carry out daily functions. A screening test from a doctor or more advanced testing (such as brain MRI or PET scans) from a neurologist can help identify potential cognitive problems so people can seek appropriate treatment.

Having an extremely low LDL level from aggressive cholesterol-lowering therapy was not associated with cognitive impairment, according to a 2024 study.

Just as it's wise for people to take a sick day when they have a cough, fever, or nausea, certain signs indicate people need a mental health day. These include feeling burned out at work, overwhelmed by personal issues, unmotivated, exhausted by work or life demands, more anxious or depressed than usual, unable to sleep consistently, or drawn to substance use. While some spend a mental health day on indulgent activities, others run errands or tick items off their to-do list. Not taking a mental health day when needed can trigger flare-ups of depression or anxiety.

A 2024 study suggested that older adults who undergo cataract surgery to improve vision may have a lower risk of developing dementia.

There's no clear-cut answer about whether taking antihistamines for allergies increases dementia risk. Antihistamines have anticholinergic effects, which might increase the risk for dementia by blocking a particular brain neurotransmitter or increasing brain inflammation. But studies on whether there's any link between antihistamines and dementia have produced conflicting findings. Doctors advise taking the lowest antihistamine dose possible or using another medication for symptom relief.

Looking after a loved one who has prostate cancer can be overwhelming. Caregivers play crucial roles in supporting a patient's physical and psychological well-being. But what does that entail? Here's what to know about effective communication, day-to-day support, and taking care of yourself.